23rd January, 2024
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Mauritania pulled one of the biggest shocks at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday knocking Algeria out of the tournament with a lone goal victory.
It was the first victory for Mauritania in an AFCON tournament and that will see them through to the knockout stage.
Yali Dellahi was the hero of the day. He managed to control the rebound and quickly produced an incredible strike which deflected in off the post and behind the helpless goalkeeper in the 37th minute to give Mauritania a 1-0 victory.
Earlier, Souleymane Anne blew a clear opportunity to score a goal. He was one-on-one with Anthony Mandrea inside the six-yard box and attempted to put the ball low into the middle of the target, but was denied by a great save.
In the 56th minute, Aboubakary Koita showed off his ability with a jinking run into the box. Unfortunately, the finish let him down as the ball flew high over the bar.
In the 75th minute, Aissa Mandi clutched his head in despair after he blew a huge opportunity. He received the ball from the free kick, took a good first touch and unleashed a projectile from close range to the middle of the goal, but Babacar Niasse made a nice save.